BEING a caregiver is not just a profession but rather something most individuals have to do at some point in their lives. The road can sometimes be long, difficult and lonely which is why caregivers need emotional support.

For this reason, and based on her experience of 5 years, taking care of her husband, Wally, who had cancer, Helene Griffiths, has initiated a support group for caregivers via her outreach project, Granny Griff’s, the Soul Club.

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“Granny Griff’s is a little old fashioned meeting place in Durban North and haven for cancer and stroke patients, Alzheimer’s disease, parkinsons and MS sufferers, special needs children and adults, people in wheelchairs and their care-givers as well as pensioners too. The needs of Xerostomia sufferers are also catered for via soft food,” said Griffiths.

While taking care of Wally, Griffiths said although she found herself tired and worn out on certain days, she did not want to leave her husband’s side which is the case with nearly all caregivers.

“It does get emotionally and physically draining. As a caregiver, you take care of your loved ones but who takes care of you? This is why I decided to start the caregivers support group because we all need support and to share our experiences,” she said.

“We hold meetings on a Saturday every month and it’s open to anyone who is a caregiver. If you are a caregiver who needs a bit of a break and support, the caregivers support group is for you. The date isn’t preset but we update our Facebook page regularly where meetings dates are posted,” she added.

The next meeting takes place on Saturday, 13 May at 14:30. Tea or coffee will be available at R10.

For more information contact Griffiths on 082 570 6730 or email helene@griffsgraffiti.co.za

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